Bonnie Watson Coleman: “First of all, let me thank my colleague, Mr. Pocan, for yielding back and giving me this opportunity to address the…”

“First of all, let me thank my colleague, Mr. Pocan, for yielding back and giving me this opportunity to address the people of the United States of America. I am new around here, and so I like to generally listen and evaluate before I speak, and I only try to speak when I might have something to add of value. If you drive through my district, which is the 12th Congressional District of the State of New Jersey and includes a lot of highways, byways, and bridges, you will see this iconic sign in the capital of New Jersey that says, ``Trenton Makes, The World Takes.'' It is a sign that points out the legendary industrial past of our community. However, this industrial revolution, it has passed us by, and it is a reminder of the employment that the city used to have. Yes, the city of Trenton was once the place that you found employment. The Trenton Iron Company produced the wrought iron beams for the dome on this U.S. Capitol Building where we stand today. Trenton's John Roebling's Sons Company produced wire rope that was used to build the Brooklyn Bridge, the now-famous George Washington Bridge, and the Golden Gate suspension bridge in California. Trenton was also known for its potterymaking, and even today, Trenton pottery can be found on display in museums around the world because of its artistry and superior craftsmanship. Trenton's booming industry is responsible for the invention of even the oyster crackers, pork roll, Bayer aspirin, and felt-tipped markers.…”